Abstract: Method and apparatus for connecting branch circuits to cores of a live electrical cable include placing a plurality of contact pieces individually in position in a common predetermined cable cross-sectional plane. The branch circuits may be connected to the contact pieces before or after such placement. The contact pieces each have contact feet which include contact blades or like arrangements. The contact feet can be inserted into a dual trough-like spacer piece placed between the cable cores. A multi-piece clamping ring maintained in an assembled condition by tension bolts is positioned to enclose or envelop the contact pieces. During the process of tightening the tension bolts, pressure pieces exert pressure on the cable cores so that the cores are pressed against the adjacent contact pieces. This results in the contact blades penetrating the core insulation to establish physical contact with the cable.